Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice involving swishing a tablespoon of edible oil (such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil) around the mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. The purpose of this routine is to support oral hygiene by drawing out bacteria and debris from the mouth. The immediate concern is the accidental swallowing of the used oil, which must be avoided due to the contents it has collected.
The Contents of Used Pulling Oil
The oil must be spit out because its physical properties allow it to bind with and collect materials present in the mouth. As the oil is swished, it emulsifies with saliva, changing its viscosity and often becoming milky white. This process traps microorganisms because oral bacteria have a flexible fatty membrane that the oil binds to (lipophilic action). The resulting liquid contains a high concentration of oral bacteria, including those associated with plaque, such as Streptococcus mutans, along with food debris and dead epithelial cells. Swallowing this contaminated substance reintroduces the collected biological waste and bacterial load directly into the digestive system.
Common Symptoms of Swallowing Used Oil
Accidentally ingesting a small amount of used oil typically results in mild, temporary gastrointestinal upset. The sudden introduction of a high concentration of bacteria and fatty oil into the stomach can trigger feelings of nausea. This response is often the body’s natural reaction to something it perceives as contaminated or overly rich. Individuals may also experience an upset stomach, mild cramping, or diarrhea. While uncomfortable, these common digestive reactions are usually short-lived and resolve within a few hours without intervention.
Severe Consequences and Aspiration Risk
While minor digestive issues are the most common complaint, more severe risks are associated with the accidental inhalation of the oil, known as aspiration. When a liquid enters the windpipe instead of the esophagus, it can travel into the lungs. Aspiration of any oily substance is a serious concern because the oil coats the delicate lung tissues. This coating can lead to a condition called exogenous lipoid pneumonia, which is an inflammatory reaction caused by the presence of fat particles in the lungs. Unlike water-based fluids, the oil is not easily cleared by the lungs, causing a sustained inflammatory response.
Lipoid Pneumonia
Although rare, cases of lipoid pneumonia have been attributed to the unintentional aspiration of oil during the pulling process. Symptoms can range from a chronic cough and chest pain to difficulty breathing, and they may be mistaken for other respiratory illnesses. Aspiration is a particular concern for children, the elderly, or anyone with pre-existing swallowing difficulties or compromised respiratory function.
Immediate Steps to Take After Ingestion
If a small amount of used oil is accidentally swallowed, immediately rinse the mouth thoroughly with water several times. This removes residual oil and bacteria from the oral cavity. Drinking a glass of plain water can also help flush the digestive tract and dilute the swallowed material. Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal distress, such as persistent nausea or severe cramping, which should resolve quickly. Medical attention must be sought immediately if severe symptoms occur, particularly difficulty breathing, wheezing, or a persistent cough.